‘Spellbook’ by Waraxe
‘Spellbook’ by Waraxe (Artwork by Valsamaki Georgia)
Enchantment and mystery are essential aspects of quality dungeon synth, as is the art of storytelling. As much of the genre features thematic elements focused on fantasy and magical adventures, Waraxe delivers a delightful new album in Spellbook. The artist has created a musical world unto itself, as we enter the magical School of Rasmal, pursuing echoes through hallways enshrined by enigma.
“The Road So Far” introduces us to our new adventure with an inviting atmosphere that is seemingly optimistic and adventurous. There is a character to the song that indicates the beginning of an adventure rather than a nightmare. “Seal of White Magic” continues this theme, albeit with a little more reservation. It’s more concentrated and introspective, almost calling the listener to beware of the enchanted traps set before them.
Waraxe does not leave us lingering in the hallways surrounded by flowers and beauty for long, however. “Dark Transcendence,” the third track on the album, is a portal into the black magic that lives within the School of Rasmal. The listener comes to find that evil is in their presence, sending a chill down the spine. It is both dark and heavy, fearful and abhorrent. The spiral continues with “Seal of Black Magic,” a melody that is both haunting and enrapturing to the senses.
“Seal of Necromancy” is abrasive and impulsive, as if all beauty has been forgotten in exchange for chaos and confusion. Alas, the dissonance does not persist for eternity, as “Seal of Arcane Warrior” sparks hope and light in the midst of the darkness. Peaceful and melodic, the track lifts the listener’s eyes to the hills towards victory and new dawn.
“A Wizard’s Burden” closes the album with a contemplative and emotional melody. Despite the dark overtones, there is a sense of rest and peace emanating from the soundscapes. The journey is through, at least as we know it. Until the next dragon awakes or the next devilish mage wields their power towards destruction, this victory brings a weary soul much-needed rest and peace.
Waraxe has once again wielded a magical musical masterpiece that embodies what we love about dungeon synth. Magic, mystery, and wonder are found throughout the record, taking the listener to another world.
To the listener, enjoy this album with all your delight. Yet, beware of pitfalls and danger along the way. Spellbook is for those who press on, not for those who turn back in retreat.
